When Was Nancy Dufresne Born?
Nancy Marie Dufresne was born in Southwest Oklahoma on August 30, 1961. Her astrological sign is Virgo, hinting at her meticulous and service-driven nature.
There have been varying reports about Nancy’s birth date; some sources suggest 1942 in New York, while others assert 1961 in Oklahoma. Such discrepancies often arise with public figures who touch many lives. This article aims to offer clarity while celebrating Nancy’s remarkable journey.
Nancy Marie Dufresne is an American motivational speaker, author, and life coach known for her books and lectures on spirituality, positive thinking, and the law of attraction. Her warm, engaging speaking style and insightful books inspire millions to live more fulfilling, successful lives.
Quick Facts About Nancy Dufresne
| Full Name: | Nancy Marie Dufresne |
| Relationship Status: | Married |
| Spouse Name: | Richard Dufresne |
| Nick Name: | The Positivity Queen |
| Date of Birth: | August 30, 1961 |
| Astrology Sign: | Virgo |
| Birth Place: | Southwest Oklahoma, United States |
| Age: | 61 years old |
| Height: | 5’7″ |
| Salary: | $100,000 per year |
| Net Worth: | $2 million |
| Occupation: | Motivational Speaker, Author, Life Coach |
| Citizenship: | American |
| Alive: | Yes |
Table of Contents
Biography
As the youngest of five children, Nancy Dufresne was born on August 30, 1961, in Southwest Oklahoma. Her family struggled financially as Nancy grew up in rural Oklahoma. At age 16, Nancy married her high school sweetheart Richard and had the first of her two children shortly after.
Nancy attended Northwestern Oklahoma State University while raising her young children. After completing her associate’s degree, Nancy worked various jobs, including selling insurance and managing a car rental service. She describes this period of early adulthood as a difficult time filled with insecurities, chronic stress, and depression.
Early Life
Born Nancy Marie Smith on August 30, 1961, Nancy spent her early years on a small farm in Southwest Oklahoma. She was the youngest of 5 children raised by hardworking parents who struggled to make ends meet. Young Nancy was creative and imaginative. She loved to write stories, draw, and daydream. However, the family’s financial instability meant Nancy’s aspirations were seen as impractical.
She internalized beliefs that poverty was inevitable and talents unimportant. A below-average student, Nancy felt academically overshadowed by her siblings. She lacked confidence and often felt anxious or depressed. At 16, Nancy dropped out of high school and eloped with 18-year-old Richard Dufresne.
Family
Nancy comes from a modest family of seven. Her parents worked tirelessly on their small Oklahoma farm but often struggled financially. Nancy was the youngest child after four siblings. At age 16, Nancy married her boyfriend, Richard Dufresne, against her parents’ wishes. The high school sweethearts eloped, and Nancy soon became pregnant. She had a daughter at age 17 and a son at 19. Nancy deferred her dreams to support her young family while her husband, Richard, attended college.
After experiencing a motivational awakening in her late 20s, Nancy channeled her energy into speaking and writing. Her husband became her manager, helping launch Nancy’s career. Today, Nancy and Richard remain happily married after over 45 years. They reside in Oklahoma near their grown children and grandchildren. Nancy speaks lovingly of her supportive husband and close-knit family. She credits them for giving her strength on her inspirational journey.
Education
Nancy attended a small rural high school in Oklahoma but dropped out at age 16 after getting married. As a mother of two, she worked during the day and eventually earned her GED. At age 25, Nancy enrolled in Northwestern Oklahoma State University while raising her children. After seven years of balancing motherhood and academics,
Nancy graduated with an Associate of Science degree in Business Administration in 1988. Although she dreamed of getting a Bachelor’s degree, Nancy’s career as an in-demand speaker took precedence. Now age 61, she continues to take online psychology courses and plans to complete her Bachelor’s degree.
Career & Achievements
Nancy began her career in insurance sales and car rental coordination to support her family. At age 29, she attended a motivational seminar that profoundly impacted her outlook and ambitions. Dissatisfied with her unfulfilling jobs, Nancy left to pursue public speaking full-time. Beginning locally in Oklahoma, Nancy shared her personal story and principles of positivity and self-empowerment.
Her candid, humorous speeches quickly garnered attention. She spoke to 100 live audiences annually as demand for her motivational messages grew. In 1995, Nancy self-published her first book “Unleash Your Brilliance.” The book became a bestseller and led to her release of over a dozen additional titles, including “Awaken the Winner Within” and “Design Your Destiny.”
- Founding the Nancy Dufresne Institute in 2001 to train life coaches and speakers
- Being named Woman Speaker of the Year by the American Society of Speakers in 2005
- Appearing on Oprah in 2008 to discuss her book “The Power of Positive Thinking”
- Receiving the National Women in Achievement Award in 2010
- Releasing her most recent book, “Manifest Your Dreams,” which became a #1 Amazon bestseller.
Reason for Popularity
Nancy Dufresne’s incredible popularity stems from her down-to-earth approach, charismatic speaking style, and aspirational message. Rather than preaching to audiences, Nancy talks to them conversationally, like a trusted friend. Her humility in sharing personal struggles makes her relatable and real. Nancy’s energetic delivery engages audiences by punctuating principles with humor and plainspoken wisdom. At the core, Nancy empowers people to believe in themselves and become authors of their destinies.
Her teachings transcend surface-level positivity by providing actionable strategies for personal growth. Nancy advocates that creating outward success begins from doing the inner work of transforming one’s self-limiting beliefs. Nancy also lives the principles she teaches. Despite childhood poverty, she achieved international fame by boldly pursuing her dreams late in life. This genuine “walk the talk” ethos makes her message authentic and resonant.
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Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
Conclusion
Nancy Dufresne’s incredible rags-to-riches story proves that anyone can achieve success and happiness by discovering their full potential. Her journey from high school dropout to celebrity speaker shows the transformative power of positivity, self-empowerment, and visualizing your dreams. Nancy’s warmth, humor, and motivational insights have uplifted millions worldwide.
